Understanding Arthritis
In short: cartilage wears away, joint space narrows, bones react with thickening, muscles tense up. Pain arises not only in the cartilage, but also in the joint capsule, muscles, and tendons.
Goal of therapy: relieve pain, maintain mobility, strengthen muscles, adapt to daily life – not "shut everything down."
Arthrosis or Arthritis? – Differences, warning signs, when to see a doctor
Arthrosis = wear and tear, rather load-dependent pain, start-up pain, later chronic pain.
Arthritis = inflammatory (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, gout), often swollen, warm joints, pronounced morning stiffness, general symptoms possible.
Warning signs for a doctor's visit:
– Redness, severe swelling, fever
– Suddenly occurring, very severe pain
– Persistent restricted movement or deformities
Warm or cool? – correct application for joint pain
Basic rule for patients:
– Acute, hot, swollen joints: rather cool (e.g., cool pack with a cloth, 10–15 minutes).
– Chronic, "rusty," non-overheated joints: often rather warmth (hot water bottle, heat patch, warm bath).
Important: Protect skin, check temperature (especially with circulatory disorders, diabetes).
Bandages, Tapes & Orthoses – what makes sense, what doesn't?
Brief info:
– Bandages: slight stabilization, warmth, proprioceptive stimulus – good for slight instability and everyday strain.
– Orthoses: stronger immobilization/guidance – rather time-limited, e.g., after injuries.
– Kinesio tapes: can subjectively relieve, but do not replace diagnostics or therapy.
Note: Too much immobilization breaks down muscle – use bandages/orthoses specifically and limitedly.
Medications & ointments from the pharmacy for joint pain
Possible topics:
– Local: NSAID gels, capsaicin, cooling or warming preparations.
– Systemic: Painkillers and anti-inflammatory medications, duration of intake, contraindications.
– Interactions with long-term medication (e.g., blood thinners).
– Advice: maximum duration of use, warning signs for a doctor's visit.